Pascagoula Violent Crime Lawyer

Pascagoula Violent Crime Attorney

Securing an experienced Pascagoula violent crime lawyer is imperative if you’ve been charged with a violent crime. At Taylor & Cox Law Firm, we understand the overwhelm associated with a severe accusation and how it can impact your entire life. Our skilled criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience defending individuals against serious charges, ensuring their rights are protected, and fighting for a fair trial.

Violent Crime Charges in Mississippi

Violent crimes are among the most serious offenses under Mississippi law and typically involve the harm or the threat of harm to another person. They carry serious penalties, such as lengthy prison sentences, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record. Depending on the severity of the crime, they can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony.

Mississippi’s most reported crime in 2024 was aggravated assault, with 2,481 instances. Of these, 890 aggravated assault crimes were cleared. Mississippi Crime Statistics also shows that 77.3% of aggravated assault cases involved a firearm.

Some of the most common violent crimes in Pascagoula include:

• Assault and battery. Simple assault, aggravated assault, and domestic violence
• Homicide. Manslaughter, murder, vehicular homicide
• Robbery. Armed robbery, strong-arm robbery, and carjacking
• Kidnapping. Unlawful confinement or abduction of another individual
• Sex crimes. Rape, sexual battery, and indecent assault
• Domestic violence. Physical abuse, stalking, or threats against a partner, spouse, or another family member
• Weapon offense. Illegal possession of firearms, use of a weapon when committing a crime, and unlawful discharge of a firearm

Potential Penalties for Violent Crimes in Pascagoula

The penalties for violent crimes in Mississippi are severe and vary based on factors like criminal history, whether weapons were involved in the crime, the injuries sustained by the victims, and whether the crime involved multiple offenders. If the crime was committed against a particularly vulnerable individual, such as a child or elderly person, the sentences may be enhanced.

Misdemeanor violent crimes may result in jail time, probation, and community service. Felony violent crimes lead to much longer prison sentences, parole restrictions, significant fines, and loss of certain civil rights, such as gun ownership.

What to Do if You Are Accused of a Violent Crime

If you are facing violent crime charges in Pascagoula, it’s important to understand how to protect your case right away. Some steps to follow include:

• Remain silent. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney, as anything you say can be used against you in court. Instead, decline to answer any questions until you have a legal representative to guide you through questioning.
• Preserve evidence. Document any details that might support your defense, such as information from witnesses or evidence that proves your innocence.
• Follow legal advice. Contact a knowledgeable attorney immediately and adhere to their advice regarding court appearances, interactions with law enforcement, and public statements.
• Do not contact the victim. If you have been accused of a violent crime, avoid making any communication attempts with the victim.

For a felony, you might first appear in the Pascagoula Municipal Court or the Jackson County Justice Court for an initial appearance or bond hearing. If the case proceeds, it will be transferred to the Jackson County Circuit Court, which serves the Nineteenth Circuit Court District, covering Jackson, George, and Greene counties.

Possible Defenses Against a Violent Crime Charge

A violent crime lawyer uses various defense strategies when defending against charges. Some of these defenses include:

• Self-defense. The accused acted in a way to protect themselves from harm.
• Defense of others. The accused used force to protect another person from danger.
• Defense of property. In some cases, force may be justified to protect property.
• Lack of intent. Since intent is necessary for conviction, proof can be offered that there was no intent.
• Mistaken identity. The accused was wrongly identified as the perpetrator.
• Alibi. The accused was not present at the crime scene.
• Insufficient evidence. The prosecution lacks enough evidence to prove guilt.
• Unreliable witness testimony. Witness statements are inconsistent or untrustworthy.
• Duress. The accused was forced or coerced into committing the act.
• Law enforcement misconduct. Law enforcement conducted unlawful searches or coerced confessions.

The skilled team at Taylor & Cox Law Firm has helped many clients in Pascagoula in a similar situation to yours.

FAQs

What Is Considered a Violent Crime in Mississippi?

Examples of violent crimes in Mississippi include any crime that involves force, threats, or bodily harm against another person. Common violent crimes include murder, aggravated assault, robbery, sexual assault, domestic violence, or kidnapping. Crimes involving firearms or other deadly weapons also fall under this category. The severity of the crime determines the severity of the punishment.

How Much Is a Violent Crime Lawyer in Mississippi?

The cost of hiring a violent crime lawyer in Mississippi varies. Some factors that determine costs include the location, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience with violent crime cases. Higher-profile cases might require a retainer fee, though many lawyers charge per hour. Additional costs can include court fees, professional witnesses, and investigation costs.

Can You Get Probation for a First Time Felony in Mississippi?

Yes, probation is possible for a first-time felony offender in Mississippi, depending on the crime’s severity and circumstances. Nonviolent felonies, such as drug possession or theft, might qualify for probation instead of a prison sentence. Violent crimes, drug trafficking charges, and sexual offenses generally result in prison time. The judge considers the defendant’s criminal history, willingness to rehabilitate, and remorse for the offense.

What Is the Most Common Violent Crime in Mississippi?

The most common violent crime in Mississippi is aggravated assault, according to Mississippi’s 2024 Crime Statistics. In that year, 2,482 aggravated assault charges were reported in the state. The second most reported crime involves non-consensual sex offenses at 770 accounts in 2024. The total number of violent crimes reported was 3,657.

Contact a Pascagoula Violent Crime Lawyer Today

If you’re facing a violent crime charge, contact the Taylor & Cox Law Firm. Our experienced attorneys can evaluate the evidence, explore defense strategies, and fight for your rights and future. Call us today to schedule a consultation.